IT WAS lights, camera, action for staff and patients from Huddersfield Royal Infirmary as filming got underway for a new exercise DVD for breast cancer sufferers.

The fitness stars put on their Lycra to take part in a DVD designed to help women recovering from breast surgery across the country.

HRI breast cancer nurse Susan Booker and oncology physiotherapist Lisa Wright came up with the bright idea to get women moving again after major operations.

The pair made an amateur video for local patients several years ago to help women recover after treatment.

Now the charity Breast Cancer Care has thrown its weight behind the project to help the duo produce a professional DVD to help breast cancer patients nationally.

A production team was sent to film the group carrying out the routines at Greens Gym in Baildon last week.

The finished DVD is expected to be available later this year.

Susan, who thought up the idea for her patients after watching other exercise videos, said: “Exercise is so important as it helps patients regain mobility and flexibility after their treatment and it also produces an extra feeling of well-being.

“We are delighted that what started as a local idea in Huddersfield will now benefit patients all over the country.”

Physiotherapist Lisa led the group through the gentle warm-ups, exercises and cooling down routines aimed at recovering confidence and strength in the arms and upper body.

Breast cancer patient Gillian Hobson, from Crosland Moor, was delighted to be taking part.

She said: “I have really enjoyed the filming. It was quite exciting to be involved and if it helps other women it has been a very good thing to be involved with.

“I feel like we are all part of a family and a hug is part of the treatment.”

Marsden patient Elisabeth Burgoyne, also enjoyed the experience.

She said: “Taking part makes you realise how far you have come. There was a time when I couldn’t raise my arm, then after exercise, it went up and it felt tremendous.”

Georgina Lyons from Breast Cancer Care said: “It was a pleasure to be working with the team and patients from Huddersfield Royal Infirmary.

“The idea of a DVD is inspired and should be a huge help to the thousands of patients who undergo breast cancer treatment every year.”

The DVD will also include a section by Professor Anna Campbell, an exercise-based cancer rehabilitation specialist.

It will be available through the Breast Cancer Care website and helpline.